What to Say to a Recruiter on LinkedIn After Submitting a Job Application

So, you've submitted your job application, and now you're waiting for a response. It can feel a bit nerve-wracking, right? But here's the thing: following up with a recruiter on LinkedIn after your application can make a world of difference! In this guide, we'll walk through why it's essential to follow up and how to do it effectively, enhancing your chances of landing that dream job.

Understanding the Importance of Following Up

Following up with a recruiter is often seen as an extra step, but it can be a decisive one in your job search. Here’s why it’s so important:

• Demonstrates Enthusiasm: When you take the time to follow up, it shows the recruiter that you’re genuinely interested in the position. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates who may not follow up.
• Builds Relationships: Initiating a conversation with a recruiter's help builds rapport. It’s not just about the job — it’s about establishing a professional relationship that could benefit you in the future.
• Clarifies Your Status: Sometimes, applications can get lost in the shuffle. A follow-up can help you find out where you stand in the hiring process, reducing your anxiety while you wait.
• Opportunity for Feedback: A follow-up can give you a chance to learn more about what the recruiter thinks of your application and how you might improve in future applications.

Now that we understand the importance, let’s talk about how to do it effectively.

Timing Your Follow-Up

It’s crucial to follow up at the right time. Ideally, you should send your follow-up message about one week after submitting your application. This gives recruiters enough time to review applications without appearing too pushy. If you received a specific timeline during the application process (like "we'll get back to you in two weeks"), it's best to wait until that timeframe has passed.

Crafting Your Message

When drafting your message, keep it short and sweet. Here are some tips for creating an effective follow-up message:

• Be Polite: Start with a polite greeting. A simple “Hello [Recruiter’s Name]” works wonders.
• State Your Purpose: Clearly mention that you’re following up on your application for the [Job Title] position you applied for on [Date].
• Express Enthusiasm: Reiterate your excitement about the opportunity and why you think you’d be a great fit.
• Keep It Short: Respect their time. A few sentences are usually sufficient.

Here’s a quick template to get you started:

Hello [Recruiter’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position I submitted on [Date]. I’m very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute my skills in [Your Relevant Skills/Experience].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you!

Best,  
[Your Name]  
[Your LinkedIn Profile]  

Remember, a follow-up is about keeping the lines of communication open, so don’t hesitate to reach out. It's a small effort that can lead to big opportunities!

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3. When to Reach Out to a Recruiter

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to following up with a recruiter after submitting your job application. You want to strike a balance between being proactive and not coming across as too eager or pushy. So, when is the right time to reach out? Here are some guidelines to help you determine the perfect moment:

• Wait About a Week: It's generally a good idea to give recruiters at least a week to review applications. This shows respect for their process and allows them to assess candidates thoroughly without feeling rushed.
• Consider Application Deadlines: If the job posting has a specific deadline, reach out a few days after that date has passed. This way, you can inquire about your application status without seeming impatient.
• Follow-Up After an Interview: If you've already interviewed and are awaiting feedback, send a friendly follow-up about a week after the interview. This is a good chance to express your continued interest in the role.
• Be Mindful of Holidays and Weekends: Avoid reaching out just before a long weekend or holiday as your message might get lost in the shuffle. Reach out during the week, preferably mid-morning or early afternoon.

Following these guidelines can help you establish a positive rapport with the recruiter and keep you in their thoughts regarding your application without putting undue pressure on them. Remember, a little patience can go a long way!

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4. Crafting Your Message to the Recruiter

Once you've decided it’s the right time to reach out, the next step is crafting your message. The goal here is to be concise, polite, and to the point while expressing your enthusiasm for the role. Here's how to structure your message effectively:

1. Start with a Friendly Greeting

Always begin your message with a polite greeting. If you know the recruiter's name, use it! For example:

“Hi [Recruiter’s Name],”

2. Introduce Yourself

Make sure to briefly introduce yourself, especially if you haven’t communicated before. Mention the position you applied for to remind the recruiter of who you are:

“I hope you’re doing well! My name is [Your Name], and I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].”

3. Express Gratitude

Show appreciation for their time and efforts. A little courtesy goes a long way:

“I wanted to take a moment to thank you for considering my application.”

4. State Your Purpose

Clearly communicate the purpose of your message. Ask for an update on your application status, but do so in a manner that reflects your enthusiasm for the role:

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and wanted to inquire if there were any updates regarding my application.”

5. End Politely

Conclude your message by expressing your availability to discuss further or to answer any additional questions:

“Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon!”

Finally, remember to sign off with your name and LinkedIn profile link. This makes it easier for the recruiter to reconnect. Here’s a quick example of what your message might look like:

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! My name is [Your Name], and I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I wanted to take a moment to thank you for considering my application. I’m very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and wanted to inquire if there were any updates regarding my application. Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon!
Best,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn Profile Link]

Crafting your message thoughtfully can create a positive impression and set the stage for further engagement with the recruiter!

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5. Key Elements to Include in Your Follow-Up Message

When it comes to following up with a recruiter on LinkedIn, crafting the perfect message is crucial. You want to strike the right balance between being professional and personable. Here are some key elements to consider including in your follow-up message:

• Subject Line: If you're using LinkedIn's messaging feature, your subject line is usually pre-filled. However, if you're sending an InMail or connecting via email, make it clear and concise. Something simple like "Following Up on My Job Application" works well.
• Polite Greeting: Start with a friendly salutation. A simple "Hi [Recruiter's Name]" sets a positive tone.
• Express Gratitude: Always thank the recruiter for their time and consideration. Something like, "Thank you for taking the time to review my application" can go a long way.
• State the Purpose: Clearly mention that you're following up on your job application. It’s important to be direct while still sounding polite. For example: "I’m reaching out to inquire about the status of my application for the [Job Title] position."
• Highlight Your Enthusiasm: Convey your excitement about the role and the company. A little enthusiasm can help remind recruiters why you’re a great fit. You might say, "I'm really enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and believe my skills in [relevant skills] align well with the team’s needs."
• Offer Additional Information: Let them know you’re available for any further information or questions. You can say, "Please let me know if you need any more information from my side." This shows you are proactive and willing to engage further.
• End with a Polite Closing: Conclude your message on a positive note. A phrase like "Looking forward to hearing from you" leaves the door open for a response.

By including these elements, you’ll craft a follow-up message that is not only informative but also warm and approachable. Remember, making a good impression can set you apart in the competitive job market.

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6. Best Practices for Communicating on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for job seekers, but knowing how to communicate effectively on this platform is essential. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when sending messages, connecting with recruiters, or engaging with posts:

• Be Professional: Remember that LinkedIn is a professional networking platform. Use proper grammar and avoid slang. This doesn’t mean you can’t express your personality; just keep it appropriate.
• Be Concise: Keep your messages brief and to the point. Recruiters often have busy schedules, so respect their time. Aim for clarity and brevity; say what needs to be said in a couple of short paragraphs.
• Personalize Your Messages: Tailor your messages to the specific recruiter or company. Mention something relevant to their background or the company values. This shows you've done your homework and are genuinely interested.
• Engage with Content: Don’t just reach out when you want something. Engage with posts from recruiters or companies by liking or commenting. This can keep you on their radar and shows you’re truly interested in the industry.
• Follow Up Respectfully: If you haven’t heard back after your initial follow-up, waiting at least a week before sending a gentle reminder is advisable. Patience goes a long way in maintaining a positive professional relationship.
• Be Open to Networking: Building relationships is key. Be open to connecting with others in your industry, even if they aren’t directly related to job openings at that moment. You never know when a connection might lead to a new opportunity.

By following these best practices, you can enhance your communication on LinkedIn, making it a valuable tool in your job search arsenal. Remember, the goal is to build genuine relationships that can help you land that dream job!

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7. Examples of Follow-Up Messages

Now that you know the importance of following up, it’s time to look at some concrete examples of what you can say. Tailoring your message will help make a good impression and increase the likelihood of getting a response. Here are a few templates you can consider:

1. Simple Follow-Up

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position I submitted on [Date]. I am very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to [specific aspect of the company or role].

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you!

Best,
[Your Name]

2. Follow-Up with Additional Information

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I trust you’re doing great! I'm reaching out to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position submitted on [Date]. I wanted to add that I recently [mention any relevant new experience or skill], which I believe enhances my fit for this role.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your feedback!

Best regards,
[Your Name]

3. Casual Follow-Up

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I hope your week is going well! I just wanted to touch base regarding my application for the [Job Title] role I applied for on [Date]. I'm really enthusiastic about the potential opportunity and would love to discuss how my background in [specific skill or experience] can benefit your team.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Cheers,
[Your Name]

Each of these examples maintains a professional yet approachable tone, which is perfect for LinkedIn. The key is to be concise while conveying your enthusiasm and readiness to engage further.

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8. Tips for Building a Relationship with Recruiters

Now that you understand how to follow up effectively, let's explore some ways to build and nurture your relationship with recruiters. Establishing a connection goes beyond a simple message after applying for a job—it's about developing a professional rapport that can benefit you in the long run. Here are some actionable tips:

• Personalize your interactions: Always address recruiters by their name and customize your messages based on previous conversations or shared interests. This shows that you value them as individuals and are genuinely interested.
• Engage with their content: If the recruiter shares articles, job postings, or industry insights, make it a habit to engage. Like, share, or comment on their posts. This interaction keeps you on their radar and showcases your ongoing interest in the industry.
• Follow them closely: Keep an eye on job openings they post and the companies they recruit for. This allows you to tailor your conversations to specific roles and express your enthusiasm validly.
• Be helpful: If you come across an article, resource, or networking opportunity that may benefit the recruiter or their company, share it! This demonstrates that you are a professional who values building a mutually beneficial relationship.
• Check in periodically: Whether you’ve already applied for a job or not, a brief message checking in every few months can keep the lines of communication open. It’s an opportunity to update them on your career progress or express continued interest in potential openings.

Building a strong relationship with recruiters isn’t just about landing a job. It’s about creating a network of professional relationships that can open doors to future opportunities. Remember, networking is a two-way street, so be sincere, supportive, and proactive in nurturing these connections!

Conclusion

Following up with a recruiter on LinkedIn after submitting a job application is a crucial step in the job search process. It demonstrates your interest in the role and keeps you on the recruiter's radar. Here are some key takeaways to remember:

• Be Timely: Wait about one to two weeks after submitting your application before reaching out.
• Personalize Your Message: Always address the recruiter by name and reference the specific position you applied for.
• Keep It Concise: Recruiters are busy, so make sure your message is brief and to the point.
• Express Enthusiasm: Highlight your excitement for the role and the company.
• Provide Additional Value: If applicable, mention any new qualifications or experiences that may enhance your application.

Remember that following up is not just about checking the status of your application; it's an opportunity to reinforce your qualifications and interest in the position. By crafting a thoughtful and respectful follow-up message, you can make a lasting impression and potentially increase your chances of landing an interview.